12 more Woolies stores snapped up

Value retail chain Poundland has today announced that it has purchased 12 ex-Woolworths stores.

One hundred former Woolies staff have been taken on by the firm following the buy, which forms part of Poundland’s planned expansion.

The retailer is committed to opening at least 30 new stores in the UK this financial year, with 15 in Scotland, creating more than 1,000 new jobs.

Poundland said it was in negotiation with Woolworths’ administrators with a view to further store purchases.

“It is fantastic news that Poundland has filled the Woolworths' gap in a number of product categories and by offering shoppers amazing value on essential household products at inflation-busting prices. We are proud to have been able to offer employment to so many ex-Woolworths staff who bring great experience to Poundland,” said Poundland chief executive Jim McCarthy.

The next ex-Woolworths store to open as Poundland will be the Kings Heath store in Birmingham on 30th April. Poundland currently employs 6,400 staff and has 208 stores nationwide.

MCV is the leading trade news and community site for all professionals working within the UK and international video games market. It reaches everyone from store manager to CEO, covering the entire industry. MCV is published by NewBay Media, which specialises in entertainment, leisure and technology markets.